As a result of some extensive identity theft; how do I start to piece my genealogical information back together?

Question

A little over four years ago, I was the victim of identity theft that took me for everything, quite literally.  The culprits managed to steal my credit as well as my genealogical information.  In some extensive and truly cruel manner, the thief created identities based on my grandfather, grandmother, mother, and various family members.  This has left my family tree with additions and sadly, subtractions as well as leaving me with no idea of where to begin my research.   My family is originally from Oklahoma and of Chickasaw and African American descent.  Foolishly, the identities he/she/they created are still showing up in background searches.

Answer 1

Dear Christopher,

   It sounds like you have been through a tough experience.  Here on WikiTree we focus on collaborating on ancestors using sources to support our findings.  People who are living should be private to their family members.

   To get started here, add your parents and grandparents. If I were in your place, I would keep their information private. There is a Privacy tab on profiles to set this.  Once you are back in history far enough, you may match up with people who already have profiles here.  Then other genealogists on WikiTree will help by adding sources and attaching other family members.  You can even add research notes to explain the made-up information from your thief!

    I hope you enjoy WikiTree.  Good luck. -NGP